Who is the Southwest Sampler Moab Vacation Package best suited for?

This trip is designed for families, couples, and small groups who want a taste of Moab’s best adventures without having to plan every detail. With rafting, a Hummer Safari, and a guided Arches National Park tour, it’s ideal for first-time visitors and families with kids ages 5 and up.

What activities are included in the Southwest Sampler?

The Sampler combines two days of rafting on the Colorado River with one night of riverside camping, plus a Hummer Safari and a guided Arches National Park tour. Lodging in Moab is included before the river portion, along with most meals. It’s our most popular Moab vacation package because it bundles lodging and activities into one seamless experience.

What is the rafting portion of the trip like?

You’ll raft about 20 miles of the Colorado River over two days, with fun Class I–II rapids (sometimes Class III in spring). One night is spent camping on a riverside beach, with tents, cots, and sleeping bags provided. Guides handle all logistics and cook delicious meals, giving you time to relax, swim, or explore camp.

What type of rafts are used on the Sampler?

Trips typically use paddle boats that are assisted by a guide at the back rowing with oars. Guests can paddle if they’d like, and inflatable kayaks (“duckies”) are sometimes available for those who want more hands-on adventure. All guests wear Coast Guard–approved life jackets.

What kind of hotels are included in this Moab vacation package?

The package includes two nights at the Marriott Springhill Suites in Moab. The hotel provides a good breakfast, air conditioning, private bathrooms, a spectacular pool area, and amenities to recharge between adventures.

What’s included with camping and lodging?

On the river, all camping gear is provided, including tents, cots, and sleeping bags. Meals are included from lunch on day one through lunch on day two. In Moab, hotel accommodations are included in the package, so you don’t have to book separately. However, some guests will book an additional night after returning from the river to stay one more night in Moab.

What meals are included on the Southwest Sampler?

Breakfast and lunch is included the day after you check in. You’ll have a chance to explore local restaurants in Moab that evening. The following morning, you’ll have breakfast at the hotel before we pick you up to head to the river. Once on the river, you’ll have a picnic lunch on the beach, a freshly prepared dinner at camp, breakfast the following morning, and a riverside BBQ lunch before we conclude the rafting portion of your trip. Dietary needs can often be accommodated if requested in advance, but guests with strict diets may want to bring their own snacks.

What if I’ve never camped before?

That’s fine—many guests are first-time campers. We provide all the camping gear you’ll need and guides handle setup of shared areas like the kitchen and bathrooms. They’ll also walk you through setting up your personal tent and gear. The Southwest Sampler is a comfortable introduction to camping, with only one night spent outdoors.

What should I pack for the Southwest Sampler?

You’ll receive a packing list after booking, but plan on bringing quick-dry clothing, a swimsuit, secure footwear for rafting, and sun protection (hat, sunglasses with strap, sunscreen). Casual clothes are best for the Hummer Safari and Arches tour. Extra luggage can be stored while you’re on the river—pack your personal gear in a soft-sided duffle bag.

What are the bathroom facilities on the river?

In camp, we set up a portable toilet system in a private location. During the day, guides make “pit stops” for liquid waste in the river current, following regulations. For #2 emergencies during the day, guides provide supplies and instructions for a clean, private process.

Is this trip good for kids?

Yes. With gentle rapids, sandy beaches for play, and a variety of activities, the Southwest Sampler is one of the best Moab vacation packages for families with children as young as 5. Parents often tell us their kids loved the balance of rafting, camping, and exploring Arches.

Do I need prior rafting or camping experience?

No. This trip is designed for beginners and families. Guides provide thorough safety orientations and handle camp setup, meals, and river navigation. You just need to be reasonably healthy and able to move around camp and climb on and off rafts.

Why choose a Moab Vacation Package instead of booking separately?

Booking the Southwest Sampler as a package saves time, simplifies logistics, and ensures you don’t miss out on Moab’s most popular activities. Lodging, rafting, the Hummer Safari, and Arches tour are all coordinated for you, including pickups at the hotel for each of your activities, so you can focus on enjoying the trip instead of juggling multiple reservations and logistics. Many guests find the value is better than piecing everything together on their own.

How does the Southwest Sampler compare to longer rafting expeditions?

The Sampler is shorter and more varied, making it perfect if you don’t have time for a 5 day wilderness trip. It mixes rafting with a Hummer Safari, Arches tour, and comfortable hotel stays. It’s the best way to sample Moab’s highlights in just a few days.

When does the Southwest Sampler run, and what season is best?

Trips operate from June through August. Spring offers cooler weather and splashier water, summer brings warm water for swimming and comfortable camping, and fall offers crisp air and fewer crowds.

How far in advance should I book the Sampler?

Because it includes lodging and multiple guided activities, the Southwest Sampler has limited capacity and often sells out months in advance. Booking early ensures you get the dates you want.

Arches National Park Guided Tour
2 nights at the Marriott SpringHill Suites
Hummer Slickrock Safari
2 days, 1 night rafting the Colorado River

4-Day "Southwest Sampler" Moab Vacation Package

Family raftingon the Colorado River in a red paddleboat through rapids.

Experience the perfect mix of comfort and adventure on the Southwest Sampler, Moab’s signature 4-day vacation package. Stay two nights at the SpringHill Suites by Marriott, where red rock vistas meet resort-style relaxation. Explore the magic of Arches National Park, feel the thrill of a sunset Hummer Safari, and top it all off with a two-day rafting trip on the Colorado River. Warm water, beach camping, and starlit skies make this the ideal family adventure, a taste of the Southwest you’ll never forget.

DAY 1: WELCOME TO MOAB

Arrive in Moab and check in at the SpringHill Suites by Marriott anytime after 4:00 PM. Take a dip in the pool, stroll through downtown, or simply relax as red cliffs glow in the evening light. Enjoy a peaceful night before your adventure begins.

DAY 2: ARCHES & OFF-ROAD ADVENTURE

After breakfast, meet your guide in the hotel lobby for a half-day exploration of Arches National Park. Stand beneath towering stone arches and capture views that seem sculpted by time itself. Return to the Marriott for a catered lunch and a few hours of rest before the next thrill. Late afternoon brings your Sunset Hummer Safari, an exhilarating off-road journey over sandstone fins with incredible golden-hour views of Moab’s desert landscape.

DAY 3: RAFTING & RIVERSIDE CAMPING

Check out of the hotel and meet your guides for your two-day Colorado River rafting trip. The day begins with calm waters, perfect for swimming and relaxing. Enjoy lunch and continue to drift between towering red cliffs towards camp. Savor a freshly grilled barbecue dinner on a sandy riverbank and fall asleep to the sounds of the river beneath a brilliant field of stars.

DAY 4: RIVERSIDE BBQ & RETURN TO MOAB

Wake to the smell of coffee and breakfast cooking riverside. After breaking camp, set off for another day on the water. Mild rapids and wide canyon views make this stretch a joy to paddle or simply float through. Enjoy a hearty lunch at Red Cliffs Lodge before returning to Moab around 2:00 PM — refreshed, smiling, and full of new memories to share.

★★★★★ 4.9 Out of 2,463 Reviews

Southwest Sampler Details

ICONIC LANDMARK ACCESS

See Arches National Park’s world-famous arches, cliffs, and towers alongside Moab’s backcountry and the Colorado River.

EXPERT LOCAL GUIDES

Knowledgeable guides bring every tour to life sharing geology, stories, and laughs across land, river, and canyon.

EPIC VARIETY

From rafting splashes to off-road thrills and national park wonders. Enjoy three Moab adventures in one unforgettable trip.

COMFORT & CONVENIENCE

Shuttles, gear and snacks for tours. Meals provided on river tour. Enjoy comfortable lodging in Moab.

HASSLE-FREE LOGISITICS

One easy booking handles it all: rafting, Hummer, Arches tours, meals, and hotel stay planned seamlessly.

PERFECTLY PACED ADVENTURE

A multi-day sampler balanced with fun, downtime, and scenery. Ideal for families or first-time Moab explorers.

"Great Vacation Package in Moab Utah"

★★★★★
We did the Southwest Sampler and had wonderful guides! We loved every minute of it. We tacked on the Grand Canyon at the end (after visiting Zion and Bryce), but felt that our time in Moab with the Moab Adventure Center was truly the highlight of our vacation!

Courtney H. - Denver, CO

"The Best in Family Vacations"

★★★★★
Our Southwest Sampler vacation was wonderful—Stuart (Arches), Lamont (Hummer), and our 2-day rafting guides were all fantastic. Moab Adventure Center’s knowledgeable, enthusiastic staff made it a perfect family trip we’ll recommend to friends.

Simon - London, England

"Best Adventure Vacation Package"

★★★★★
Booking the Southwest Sampler package made everything seamless and efficient. Every guide was friendly, knowledgeable, and interactive, and our family agreed it was the best travel experience ever. Highly recommend!

Howard - Phoenix, AZ

4.9 ★★★★★

852+ REVIEWS

4.9 ★★★★★

2K+ REVIEWS

5.0 ★★★★★

2K+ REVIEWS

4.7 ★★★★★

345+ REVIEWS

Southwest Sampler Reviews

Who is the Southwest Sampler Moab Vacation Package best suited for?
This trip is designed for families, couples, and small groups who want a taste of Moab’s best adventures without having to plan every detail. With rafting, a Hummer Safari, and a guided Arches National Park tour, it’s ideal for first-time visitors and families with kids ages 5 and up.
What activities are included in the Southwest Sampler?
The Sampler combines two days of rafting on the Colorado River with one night of riverside camping, plus a Hummer Safari and a guided Arches National Park tour. Lodging in Moab is included before the river portion, along with most meals. It’s our most popular Moab vacation package because it bundles lodging and activities into one seamless experience.
What is the rafting portion of the trip like?
You’ll raft about 20 miles of the Colorado River over two days, with fun Class I–II rapids (sometimes Class III in spring). One night is spent camping on a riverside beach, with tents, cots, and sleeping bags provided. Guides handle all logistics and cook delicious meals, giving you time to relax, swim, or explore camp.
What type of rafts are used on the Sampler?
Trips typically use paddle boats that are assisted by a guide at the back rowing with oars. Guests can paddle if they’d like, and inflatable kayaks (“duckies”) are sometimes available for those who want more hands-on adventure. All guests wear Coast Guard–approved life jackets.
What kind of hotels are included in this Moab vacation package?
The package includes two nights at the Marriott Springhill Suites in Moab. The hotel provides a good breakfast, air conditioning, private bathrooms, a spectacular pool area, and amenities to recharge between adventures.
What’s included with camping and lodging?
On the river, all camping gear is provided, including tents, cots, and sleeping bags. Meals are included from lunch on day one through lunch on day two. In Moab, hotel accommodations are included in the package, so you don’t have to book separately. However, some guests will book an additional night after returning from the river to stay one more night in Moab.
What meals are included on the Southwest Sampler?
Breakfast and lunch is included the day after you check in. You’ll have a chance to explore local restaurants in Moab that evening. The following morning, you’ll have breakfast at the hotel before we pick you up to head to the river. Once on the river, you’ll have a picnic lunch on the beach, a freshly prepared dinner at camp, breakfast the following morning, and a riverside BBQ lunch before we conclude the rafting portion of your trip. Dietary needs can often be accommodated if requested in advance, but guests with strict diets may want to bring their own snacks.
What if I’ve never camped before?
That’s fine—many guests are first-time campers. We provide all the camping gear you’ll need and guides handle setup of shared areas like the kitchen and bathrooms. They’ll also walk you through setting up your personal tent and gear. The Southwest Sampler is a comfortable introduction to camping, with only one night spent outdoors.
What should I pack for the Southwest Sampler?
You’ll receive a packing list after booking, but plan on bringing quick-dry clothing, a swimsuit, secure footwear for rafting, and sun protection (hat, sunglasses with strap, sunscreen). Casual clothes are best for the Hummer Safari and Arches tour. Extra luggage can be stored while you’re on the river—pack your personal gear in a soft-sided duffle bag.
What are the bathroom facilities on the river?
In camp, we set up a portable toilet system in a private location. During the day, guides make “pit stops” for liquid waste in the river current, following regulations. For #2 emergencies during the day, guides provide supplies and instructions for a clean, private process.
Is this trip good for kids?
Yes. With gentle rapids, sandy beaches for play, and a variety of activities, the Southwest Sampler is one of the best Moab vacation packages for families with children as young as 5. Parents often tell us their kids loved the balance of rafting, camping, and exploring Arches.
Do I need prior rafting or camping experience?
No. This trip is designed for beginners and families. Guides provide thorough safety orientations and handle camp setup, meals, and river navigation. You just need to be reasonably healthy and able to move around camp and climb on and off rafts.
Why choose a Moab Vacation Package instead of booking separately?
Booking the Southwest Sampler as a package saves time, simplifies logistics, and ensures you don’t miss out on Moab’s most popular activities. Lodging, rafting, the Hummer Safari, and Arches tour are all coordinated for you, including pickups at the hotel for each of your activities, so you can focus on enjoying the trip instead of juggling multiple reservations and logistics. Many guests find the value is better than piecing everything together on their own.
How does the Southwest Sampler compare to longer rafting expeditions?
The Sampler is shorter and more varied, making it perfect if you don’t have time for a 5 day wilderness trip. It mixes rafting with a Hummer Safari, Arches tour, and comfortable hotel stays. It’s the best way to sample Moab’s highlights in just a few days.
When does the Southwest Sampler run, and what season is best?
Trips operate from June through August. Spring offers cooler weather and splashier water, summer brings warm water for swimming and comfortable camping, and fall offers crisp air and fewer crowds.
How far in advance should I book the Sampler?
Because it includes lodging and multiple guided activities, the Southwest Sampler has limited capacity and often sells out months in advance. Booking early ensures you get the dates you want.

Morning Glory Arch Canyoneering Adventure

Moab’s most epic descent: Rappel hidden cliffs, hike surreal canyons, and exit beneath a massive natural bridge you’ll never forget.

Duration: ~5 hours
Departures: AM & PM
Season: Mar – Nov

Ultimate Moab Zipline Adventure

Fly through the fins above Moab: Six thrilling ziplines, a 100-foot suspension bridge, and sweeping canyon views after a 4x4 climb to the top.

Duration: ~2.5 hrs
Departures: AM & PM
Season: Mar - Nov

TOURS & ADVENTURES

ATTRACTIONS

ACCOMMODATIONS

AREA INFORMATION

Similar trips nearby...

Highlights

4-Day "Southwest Sampler" Moab Vacation Package

What’s Included

What’s Not Included

Southwest Sampler Details

ICONIC LANDMARK ACCESS

EXPERT LOCAL GUIDES

EPIC VARIETY

COMFORT & CONVENIENCE

HASSLE-FREE LOGISITICS

PERFECTLY PACED ADVENTURE

"Great Vacation Package in Moab Utah"

"The Best in Family Vacations"

"Best Adventure Vacation Package"

4.9 ★★★★★

4.9 ★★★★★

5.0 ★★★★★

4.7 ★★★★★

What to Wear on this Tour

Cancellations

Book With Confidence

Direct Booking Price Guarantee

Expert Guides, Every Time

Award-Winning Adventures

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the Southwest Sampler Moab Vacation Package best suited for?

What activities are included in the Southwest Sampler?

What is the rafting portion of the trip like?

What type of rafts are used on the Sampler?

What kind of hotels are included in this Moab vacation package?

What’s included with camping and lodging?

What meals are included on the Southwest Sampler?

What if I’ve never camped before?

What should I pack for the Southwest Sampler?

What are the bathroom facilities on the river?

Is this trip good for kids?

Do I need prior rafting or camping experience?

Why choose a Moab Vacation Package instead of booking separately?

How does the Southwest Sampler compare to longer rafting expeditions?

When does the Southwest Sampler run, and what season is best?

How far in advance should I book the Sampler?

Extend Your Adventure in Moab, Utah

4-Day "Southwest Sampler" Moab Vacation Package